13th Week of Pregnancy: From Lime to Lemon!

Well, your first trimester has come to an end. You can bid goodbye to the morning sickness now. The 13th week of pregnancy is an entry to the second stage of gestation.

What is the 13th Week of Pregnancy All About?

At 13 weeks pregnant you are in the second trimester, which is popular for its easiness. It is also known as the honeymoon period of pregnancy. So don't shy away from traveling and taking a vacation. Enjoy it while it lasts.

Mom-to-be

The 13th week of pregnancy is known as the babymoon period for a reason. All the discomforts that you experienced during the first three months will ease up. Your baby bump is here but only seen when you choose to wear something body-hugging (which you shouldn't, wear loose comfortable clothes). With your sense of smell, your sense of taste will also heighten. The highlighted bluish veins in your body will be more visible now as the blood supply is boosted. At 13 weeks pregnant, placental development takes place. So the blood flow is likely to increase as you grow into your pregnancy. The tenderness of breasts will happen or it may not, depending upon your overall health. Apart from this, you may also observe a thick yellow fluid leaking from the breasts. It is known as colostrum. Most women in the 13th week of pregnancy also experience a high libido or sex drive. Ask your gynecologist if having intercourse at this time is suitable or not.

Baby

Go to your kitchen or the grocery near your home, and pick a lemon. That is the size of your baby's growth in the 13th week of pregnancy. If lemons are hard to find, a peach or a large plum may also work. Your baby is about that size right about now. Your fetus is developing at a large scale right now. The placenta is growing and will carry on with the growth until the closing of pregnancy. Also, the baby's muscular and nervous systems will mature in the 13th week of pregnancy. The head of your baby is more in balance with the rest of the body. The larger bones in the skull have begun to harden. The eyes of your baby are completely shut. The hair on its body is also growing. The baby's vocal cords have begun developing, which will help it say precious words to you. The salivary glands have also started functioning. Moreover, your little plum has started making use of its lungs. It is now inhaling and exhaling the amniotic fluid. The baby's growth in the 13th week of pregnancy includes red blood cells produced from the spleen. The intestines of your little one have moved into the abdomen region. Its ovaries and testes have fully developed at 13 weeks pregnant. You will now be able to hear the fetus's heartbeat through a doppler device. On top of all this amazing growth, the baby can now move its arms. It will be able to put its thumb into its mouth. And your sweet peach can even make a tiny fist.

13th Week of Pregnancy Scan

In the 13th week of pregnancy, your doctor will check your baby's fundal height. Blood tests will be done along with other scans and tests to examine the fetus for Down syndrome, spina bifida, and other health issues. The 13th week of pregnancy scan also includes an ultrasound, known as nuchal translucency. It is done to check the presence of additional fluid under the skin behind your baby's neck. Also, read about #LadiesAndBabies: Second Trimester Scans And Tests

13th Week of Pregnancy Symptoms

Some of the symptoms you experience at 13 weeks pregnant will be different. These include:

• Tender breasts
• Changes in the breast
• Less fatigue
• Increased vaginal discharge
• Heartburn and constipation
• Bloating and gas
• Food cravings and aversions
• Indigestion
• More visible veins

Also, read about: 6 Common Problems During Pregnancy

Suggestions for the 13th Week of Pregnancy

For a healthy and safe pregnancy in the 13th week, follow the given recommendations:

• Continue taking prenatal vitamins
• Start exercising and stay active
• Maintain hygiene
• Increase your calcium intake
• Eat iron-rich foods
• Don't peel your fruit, eat it completely

When to Call the doctor

At 13 weeks pregnant, if you experience anything unusual in your health, you should seek medical assistance immediately. Visit our doctor if you see symptoms of ectopic pregnancy or miscarriage. These symptoms may include:

• Vaginal bleeding (even spotting)
• leaking vaginal fluid
• Dizziness or faintness
• Dip in blood pressure
• Rectal pressure
• Pain in shoulders
• Pain or cramps in the pelvic region

For more information or free personalized guidance, speak to a Credihealth medical expert at +918010994994.